4 “Musts” to Mindfully Raise Creative Kids

Oh hey, I’m back around here – it’s good to see you again, right? I’ve been thinking about writing fun “musts” lists for let’s just say, a little while. And friends, we all know that parenting is equal parts of a joyful chaos and a big, beautiful learning curve when it comes to mindfully raise creative kids – Am I right?

And if we sit down (with a macchiato in hand) and chat in detail about a creative life with kids (I have two very different little ones at home), the magic lies in being mindful and intentional (add to the mix an extra bit of patience over here). It’s all about creating the right space for their imaginations to flourish, while cheering them on through every mini masterpiece and lightbulb idea.

I get this question from some people, on how I didn’t change my “lifestyle” when I became a mom, and how to foster creativity in them (but especially to have fun along the way), so today, I’m making a cute list (oh Maca, you are SO back) of five musts to get you started.

Bonus? These ideas are as fun for you as they are for your kids – let’s go!

Craft, Craft, Craft Together

Unleash the glitter, my friend (I know, I’m sorry but not sorry) – because crafting as a family is a surefire way to grow creativity. When you get your kids involved in DIY projects, their sense of curiosity and accomplishment shoots through the roof. And hey, it doesn’t have to be over-the-top Pinterest-level perfect (though kudos if it is!). The beauty is in the process—not just the result.

At home, I like to bring mine into the crafts I make for work. They get a peek into my projects for Home Network as these bath bombs we made, or this adorable one for Cricut, I promise you’ll both have a blast gluing, cutting or just creating together. If you need a jumping-off inspo, check out some of my recent DIYs here. Trust me, a day filled with crafting turns into priceless memories and maybe even a well-needed new family tradition.

Expose Them to Art Young

Art has this incredible superpower of making you see the world differently, and there’s no such thing as “too early” when it comes to introducing your little ones to it. Did you know that this weekend, Montreal Museums Day offers the PERFECT excuse to soak up some culture with the kids. Several of the city’s top museums are participating, and many are hosting fun events tailored to families.

For instance, over at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, they’ve got an uummaqutik art workshop. At the MAC, Les Nocturnes du MAC returns this weekend, and at Pointe-à-Callière, little history buffs can explore interactive exhibits about Montreal’s roots. Redpath Museum is your stop for a dinosaur fix (need I say more?).

Need more ideas? The Montreal Planetarium has a new stargazing show about meteorites (running there). If architecture is more their thing, the Canadian Centre for Architecture  is offering a beautiful musical garden visit and yes, there’s even hands-on fun at the Centre des Sciences de Montréal for curious minds.

Hot tip: the trick is to make it an adventure. Pack some snacks, hit up three or four places (museum hopping day, everyone?), and watch as their little eyes light up with wonder!

Let Them Explore and Create Things

Free play time can be absolute gold for creative growth, at least it has been one of mine. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon bike ride, painting on our back terrace little rocks, trying a new pottery class like this one, a morning at ballet or robotics classes during the weekends, I let them explore on their own terms, and this is key.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as putting out materials and asking: “What can you make with this?” I usually give them a blank canvas, anything recycled (cardboard is my BFF), or even random objects from nature that can spark a world of imagination. Just give them the space, and they’ll amaze you every time.

Out of the Ordinary is Now “Awesome”

Here’s my favourite part of the creative parenting puzzle: showing your kids how much you value their ideas and work – *air quote it’s giving, Picasso*. Whether it’s displaying their art on the fridge or framing it as the “masterpiece of the month,” celebrating their effort reinforces the idea that their creations really, really matter.

An idea for this month? Host an at-home “art show/vernissage” where they can explain their work like little gallery curators. Or create a dedicated shelf to highlight their latest imaginative builds (from lego masterpieces, clay creatures, or even slime inventions). When they feel like their creativity is seen and appreciated, it fuels their confidence and encourages them to keep dreaming big. Cute, right?

*Drumroll* – and there you have it, friends—four musts to sprinkle a little more creativity into your kids’ lives (and honestly, yours too). Whether you’re crafting masterpieces or dancing in front of a mural, remember to always soak in those little moments of magic.

Now go on, make some art, some memories, and maybe even a tiny mess.

I’ve missed this and you. Note: don’t forget to share your creative adventures with me—I’d love to hear them!.

Want to follow our DIY adventures? Run here 

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